Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – X-No-archive: yes Hi, I posted here almost 2 years ago after suffering a series of panic attacks and extreme anxiety for abt 6 months. Months later, the anxiety is still around, though not as severe. I never had any treatment and it seemed to subside, although my eating habits have remained permanently screwed up. I’ve also had to deal with chronic severe endometriosis, which I finally had treatment for this year, so it has been fairly tough!! My problem is that I am due to begin my Honours year in psychology (ironic? I think so) next year and, to put it frankly, I am terrified that the anxiety is going to come back a lot worse. I already feel sick and shaky thinking about it, and I feel myself getting more and more agitated as the end of the year draws closer. This time, I want to take some kind of medication to help me through it, but I’m unsure when I should see a doctor and request it — since the university year runs from March – November here, I’m thinking early January, so I’ll have the chance to find something that will work hopefully and give it a chance to kick in? I want medication because, looking back, I can remember instances of extreme anxiety dating back to when I was 5 years old, which kinda suggests to me that it might be some kind of neurotransmitter imbalance as opposed to something learnt or directly environmentally triggered. I’ve had this all of my life, and it’s only now that it’s really starting to drive me crazy. I’m so scared I won’t find a med that will work for me. My fingers are just crossed that I will! Any advice on the kind of medication to take? I know that it varies, but I have friends who have taken Zoloft for anxiety and found it very effective, and I’m a little wary of Aropax (Paxil) due to the withdrawal symptoms I have heard about. Any comments/advice would most appreciated. Take care xxxxxxxx

I just started taking klonopin.  It is a benzo.  I like the ideas of benzo because if you have side effects or do not like them you simply stop and they are not in your system forever.  Like SSRI like Prozac Zoloft Celexa paxil all take at least 2 to 3 weeks of nasty side effects and making anxiety worse before you feel any relief  then if you feel you cannot stand the side effects and stop they stay in your system for like 2 or more weeks still!  Benzo is just a fancy term for tranquilizer.  I take .25 Klonopin once in the morning and once at night.  I have only been on it a week but like it so far. Also Benzo family work instantly like the very first pill you take it reduces anxiety.  The only thing is the firs day or so you may feel a little tired while you body adjusts.  Then the sleepiness for me went away but the anti anxiety calm feeling is staying so far! Good Luck! Dustin

Response:

Cool Dustin, I am glad it is working for you.  Good luck when you put the dosage up again. If it is working now, it will continue to work for you when you add a bit more, then you can concentrate on your "baby steps" getting out in that big wide world again! Take care Imogen

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – X-No-archive: yes Hi, I posted here almost 2 years ago after suffering a series of panic attacks and extreme anxiety for abt 6 months. Months later, the anxiety is still around, though not as severe. I never had any treatment and it seemed to subside, although my eating habits have remained permanently screwed up. I’ve also had to deal with chronic severe endometriosis, which I finally had treatment for this year, so it has been fairly tough!! My problem is that I am due to begin my Honours year in psychology (ironic? I think so) next year and, to put it frankly, I am terrified that the anxiety is going to come back a lot worse. I already feel sick and shaky thinking about it, and I feel myself getting more and more agitated as the end of the year draws closer. This time, I want to take some kind of medication to help me through it, but I’m unsure when I should see a doctor and request it — since the university year runs from March – November here, I’m thinking early January, so I’ll have the chance to find something that will work hopefully and give it a chance to kick in? I want medication because, looking back, I can remember instances of extreme anxiety dating back to when I was 5 years old, which kinda suggests to me that it might be some kind of neurotransmitter imbalance as opposed to something learnt or directly environmentally triggered. I’ve had this all of my life, and it’s only now that it’s really starting to drive me crazy. I’m so scared I won’t find a med that will work for me. My fingers are just crossed that I will! Any advice on the kind of medication to take? I know that it varies, but I have friends who have taken Zoloft for anxiety and found it very effective, and I’m a little wary of Aropax (Paxil) due to the withdrawal symptoms I have heard about. Any comments/advice would most appreciated. Take care xxxxxxxx I just started taking klonopin.  It is a benzo.  I like the ideas of benzo because if you have side effects or do not like them you simply stop and they are not in your system forever.  Like SSRI like Prozac Zoloft Celexa paxil all take at least 2 to 3 weeks of nasty side effects and making anxiety worse before you feel any relief  then if you feel you cannot stand the side effects and stop they stay in your system for like 2 or more weeks still!  Benzo is just a fancy term for tranquilizer.  I take .25 Klonopin once in the morning and once at night.  I have only been on it a week but like it so far. Also Benzo family work instantly like the very first pill you take it reduces anxiety.  The only thing is the firs day or so you may feel a little tired while you body adjusts.  Then the sleepiness for me went away but the anti anxiety calm feeling is staying so far! Good Luck! Dustin

Response:

Hello, I don’t see any reason for waiting. Why not see a specialist now. You may not need medication. Therapy may help but if you need medication as well it would be helpful to sort it out during your break, rather than worrying about it until next year. Sorry about the endometriosis but I’m pleased you have had treatment. I have been taking medication for years. A combination of Xanax and Efexor XR works for me but we are all different. Welcome to another Aussie. Take care, Meryl (Melbourne)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – X-No-archive: yes Hi, I posted here almost 2 years ago after suffering a series of panic attacks and extreme anxiety for abt 6 months. Months later, the anxiety is still around, though not as severe. I never had any treatment and it seemed to subside, although my eating habits have remained permanently screwed up. I’ve also had to deal with chronic severe endometriosis, which I finally had treatment for this year, so it has been fairly tough!! My problem is that I am due to begin my Honours year in psychology (ironic? I think so) next year and, to put it frankly, I am terrified that the anxiety is going to come back a lot worse. I already feel sick and shaky thinking about it, and I feel myself getting more and more agitated as the end of the year draws closer. This time, I want to take some kind of medication to help me through it, but I’m unsure when I should see a doctor and request it — since the university year runs from March – November here, I’m thinking early January, so I’ll have the chance to find something that will work hopefully and give it a chance to kick in? I want medication because, looking back, I can remember instances of extreme anxiety dating back to when I was 5 years old, which kinda suggests to me that it might be some kind of neurotransmitter imbalance as opposed to something learnt or directly environmentally triggered. I’ve had this all of my life, and it’s only now that it’s really starting to drive me crazy. I’m so scared I won’t find a med that will work for me. My fingers are just crossed that I will! Any advice on the kind of medication to take? I know that it varies, but I have friends who have taken Zoloft for anxiety and found it very effective, and I’m a little wary of Aropax (Paxil) due to the withdrawal symptoms I have heard about. Any comments/advice would most appreciated. Take care xxxxxxxx

Response:

Question:

Hi Everyone! I’m still reading most posts, but my messages take three to nine hours to get to Google, so it is a bit discouraging to bother answering or joining in. (But, I still love you guys and feel I know you!!!) So, anyway, I have been on Aminopyridine for several weeks; I have a fine neuro who prescribed this not-yeeeet FDA approved drug.  His biggest admonition was to not O.D as it could cause a gran mal seizure. (Ahem, I have been careful as hell, believe me!) The stuff is great!  I have more energy, don’t get wasted as quickly, and can STAND for long periods without the spaghetti leg exhaustion, where I have to sit down in the middle of preparing dinner. Also, my hearing has improved, as well as my eyesight.  I am also taking Copaxone (yucky two-shoes), and Paxil, which has been increased from 20 to 60 mg. (Turns out I wasn’t depressed, I was anxious!) I am sharing this with anyone who might be able to use this info, as well as wanting to know if anyone knows anything about this stuff.  I have looked at the archives- not much on there, and the internet itself. Oh, also, I had to go to a compounding pharmacy, as the normies don’t sell it at this point. Soooo…   Whaddaya think??? Diane of Seattle, still waiting for Eliz. to return to the hot-tub (Don’t worry, Eliz.,I am a man-lover!)

Response:

I think you should take this stuff with a little ice cream. Jack P.S. I hope you do not have a pet bird. EXTOXNET PIP – 4-AMINOPYRIDINEE X T O X N E T Extension Toxicology Network Pesticide Information Profiles A Pesticide Information Project of Cooperative Extension Offices of Cornell University, Oregon State University, the University of Idaho, and the University of California at Davis and the Institute for Environmental Toxicology, Michigan State University. Major support and funding was provided by the USDA/Extension Service/National Agricultural Pesticide Impact Assessment Program. EXTOXNET primary files maintained and archived at Oregon State University Revised June 1996 4-Aminopyridine Trade and Other Names: Common names include 4-AP, P-aminopyridine, Gamma-aminopyridine, Amino-4-pyridine. Trade names include Avitroland and Avitrol 200. Regulatory Status: Based on its potential hazard to fish and non-target birds, some 4-aminopyridine formulations are classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs). RUPs may be purchased and used only by certified applicators. Grain bait formulations of 4-aminopyridine are in toxicity class III and must bear the signal word CAUTION and powder concentrate formulations are in toxicity class I and must bear the signal word DANGER. Chemical Class: pyridine compound Introduction: 4-Aminopyridine, a pyridine compound, is an extremely effective bird poison. It is one of the most prominent avicides. It is registered with the EPA for use against red-winged blackbirds, blackbirds in agricultural fields, grackles, pigeons, and sparrows around public buildings, and various birds around livestock feeding pens. Avitrol repels birds by poisoning a few members of a flock, causing them to become hyperactive. Their distress calls signal other birds to leave the site. Only a small number of birds need to be affected to cause alarm in the rest of the flock. After one alarming exposure, birds will usually not return to treated areas. Avitrol is available as grain baits or as a powder concentrate. Formulation: Avitrol is available as grain baits or as a powder concentrate. Toxicological Effects: Acute toxicity: 4-Aminopyridine is highly toxic to mammals. The central nervous system is strongly excited by 4-aminopyridine. Based on observations with 2-aminopyridine, a similar compound, individuals with a history of convulsive disorders may be at an increased risk from exposure to 4-aminopyridine [30,31]. The principal action of 4-aminopyridine in the body is to encourage message-carrying (transmitter) substances to be released throughout the nervous system, overstimulating it [68]. While intended strictly for use as a bird repellent, accidental ingestion of as little as 60 mg has caused severe poisoning in adult humans [68]. It is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract [8]. Poisonings are characterized by thirst, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and intense sweating, followed by impairment of normal mental functioning (toxic psychosis), lack of muscular coordination, tremors, labored breathing, and generalized seizures [167]. Symptoms of Avitrol poisoning in rats, dogs, and horses include over-production of saliva, tendency to become over-stimulated, and trembling, which can progress to convulsions. Death can result from respiratory arrest or heart failure [23,30]. Skin exposure to Avitrol may lead to systemic intoxication or general overall poisoning [30]. Avitrol may contribute to the excessive formation of a substance called methemoglobin. Methemoglobin is similar to hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying part of the blood, except that it cannot carry oxygen. When there is excess methemoglobin in the blood, oxygen cannot be transported and blood eventually becomes oxygen depleted, resulting in the condition methemoglobinemia. The LD50 for 4-aminopyridine is 20 to 29 mg/kg in rats, and is 3.7 mg/kg in dogs [8,167]. It is readily absorbed through the skin [23]. The dermal LD50 is 326 mg/kg in rabbits [23,30]. 4-Aminopyridine is an eye irritant. Inflammation of the iris and conjunctivitis were noted in the eyes of albino rabbits 1 hour after 10 mg of 4-aminopyridine hydrochloride were applied. These symptoms disappeared after 7 days [167]. Chronic toxicity: High dietary doses (2 to 3.25 mg/kg/day) caused increased brain weight. Brain appearance remained normal [167]. However, since dietary intake is assumed to be negligible, and because significant repeated exposure is not expected to occur, EPA has not required long-term toxicity studies of 4-aminopyridine [167]. Reproductive effects: No data are currently available. Teratogenic effects: No data are currently available. Mutagenic effects: No data are currently available. Carcinogenic effects: No data are currently available. Organ toxicity: Chronic exposure to 4-aminopyridine can cause the breakdown of proper liver and brain functioning [8]. No effects were found in the blood and urine of rats and dogs. Fate in humans and animals: 4-Aminopyridine is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream from the gastrointestinal tract [8]. It is readily broken down, or metabolized, in the liver into removable compounds excreted in urine [30]. After intravenous and oral doses were given to humans, 90.6% and 88.5% was excreted in the urine [167]. It does not to concentrate or accumulate in skin. Birds killed with Aritrol are not poisonous to predators [8,30]. Ecological Effects: Effects on birds: 4-Aminopyridine is highly toxic to birds. The 8-day dietary LC50 is 447 ppm in Japanese quail, 316 ppm in mourning doves, and 722 ppm in mallard ducks [167]. Avian reproduction studies suggest ingestion of sublethal amounts of 4-aminopyridine is unlikely to cause negative effects on birds’ reproductive systems [8]. There is a large potential for exposure of non-target, particularly grain-feeding birds. Migratory birds, finches, and other small seed-feeding birds may ingest lethal doses that are applied to corn and sunflower fields. Effects on aquatic organisms: 4-Aminopyridine is moderately toxic to warmwater fish. Fish become increasingly sensitive with increased exposure [167]. The LC50 ranges from 4 mg/L (in soft water) to 2.43 mg/L (in hard water) in channel catfish. The LC50 in is 3.40 mg/L (in soft water) to 3.20 mg/L (hard water) in bluegill [37]. Effects on other organisms: Endangered species may be adversely affected by 4-aminopyridine [167]. There is low or nonexistent potential for secondary poisoning in animals such as cats, dogs, or birds of prey that may feed upon birds killed by Avitrol [167]. Environmental Fate: Breakdown in soil and groundwater: 4-Aminopyridine is readily adsorbed to soil particles and is highly persistent [167]. It is broken down slowly by soil microorganisms. It is more likely to remain near the soil surface where most microbial degradation tends to occur [167]. The half-life of 4-aminopyridine in soil with oxygen ranges from 3 months in clay soil to 32 months in sandy-loam soils. The rate at which 4-aminopyridine is metabolized in aerobic soil increases with greater amounts of organic matter [167]. Studies indicate that 4-aminopyridine is relatively immobile in soils. It is not expected to be present in groundwater as a result of its use on land [167]. Breakdown in water: 4-Aminopyridine is not expected to be present in surface water as a result of land application of formulated products [167]. Breakdown in vegetation: Available plant metabolism data on sorghum indicate that some breakdown of 4-aminopyridine does occur, with three breakdown products; however, no metabolites were found in corn. 4-Aminopyridine is absorbed and moved from one part of a plant to another to varying degrees, depending on the manner in which it is applied. Plant uptake of 4-AP is not expected to be significant in corn and sunflowers [167]. Physical Properties: Appearance: Technical 4-aminopyridine is a white crystalline solid that contains about 98% active ingredient [8]. Chemical Name: 4-aminopyridine [31] CAS Number: 504-24-5 Molecular Weight: 94.13 Water Solubility: Soluble [31] Solubility in Other Solvents: s.s. in benzene and ether [31] Melting Point: 158 C [31] Vapor Pressure: Not Available Partition Coefficient: Not Available Adsorption Coefficient: Not Available Exposure Guidelines: ADI: Not Available MCL: Not Available RfD: 0.00002 mg/kg/day [13] PEL: Not Available HA: Not Available TLV: Not Available Basic Manufacturer: Avitrol Corporation 7644 East 46th St. Tulsa, OK 74145 Phone: 918-622-7763 Emergency: Not Available References: References for the information in this PIP can be found in Reference List Number 10 DISCLAIMER: The information in this profile does not in any way replace or supersede the information on the pesticide product labeling or other regulatory requirements. Please refer to the pesticide product labeling.

Response:

In article <c5085648.0111032140.44fd…@posting.google.com

,

 Dianekkomar…@msn.com (Diane Komaroff) wrote: {snip}

I am sharing this with anyone who might be able to use this info, as well as wanting to know if anyone knows anything about this stuff.  I have looked at the archives- not much on there, and the internet itself.

{snip} Hi Diane, I too, take 4-Aminopyridine (3 x 10 mg) (you MUST not take too much!) with considerable success (was able to stop taking Baclofen). I also take amantadine   (2 x 100 mg) and am on 40 mg/day of fluoxetine (generic Prozac) – I had some MS ’caused’ depression… My perscription is from my doctor at the MS Centre of UBC; they also use a compounding farmacy and the drug is not covered by my insurance…. The following was written by From: TOM HOGARTH <thoga…@ibm.net

and appeared on this newsgroup, on 13 Oct 1998 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

more from my files Subj:  4-AP Date:  96-08-29 15:17:27 EDT From:  MD QA on MS Following is the reply to a question posted to Ask MDs About MS. —Question— I have had a very good experience with 4-AP to date including increased stamina and mobility.  In what book or journal can I find more information such as: (1) will the effect change?; (2) what governs maximum dosage;? (3) are there contraindications with certain other familiar MS drugs? —Answer— 4-aminopyridine (or 4-AP) is a compound that blocks channels in nerve fibers that allow the passage of potassium ions into and out of the nerves. By blocking potassium entry into the nerves the speed of nerve conduction is increased, especially in nerves that have lost myelin. It is this increase in the speed of nerve conduction impulses that is responsible for the beneficial effects of 4-AP. Several double-blind, placebo controlled trials have demonstrated that 4-AP can provide continuous benefit to persons with MS, particularly in areas related to visual function, ambulation, and fatigue. Unfortunately there are two drawbacks to this medicine, one minor, the other major. First, and minor, is that 4-AP is relatively short acting and thus must be taken three or more times per day. The second, major difficulty, is that there are very serious side effects with higher doses of 4-AP. At blood levels above 100 ng/ml patients can experience generalized convulsions, confusion, dizziness, spasms, and tingling. Because 4-AP can cause seizures, it should be used with great caution in patients on medicines that increase the risk of seizures. These include tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, which are frequently used in persons with MS to control pain, bladder urgency, and insomnia. Some recent references about 4-AP are given below: 1. Bever CT, Jr. (1994):The current status of studies of aminopyridines in patients with multiple sclerosis. [Review]. Annals of Neurology 36:S118-21. 2. Bever CT, Jr., Young D, Anderson PA, et al. (1994):The effects of 4-aminopyridine in multiple sclerosis patients: results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, concentration-controlled, crossover trial. Neurology 44:1054-9. 3. Pickett TA, Enns R. (1996):Atypical presentation of 4-aminopyridine overdose. Annals of Emergency Medicine 27:382-5. 4. Polman CH, Bertelsmann FW, van LAC, Koetsier JC. (1994):4-aminopyridine in the treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis. Long-term efficacy and safety. Archives of Neurology 51:292-6. 5. Smits RC, Emmen HH, Bertelsmann FW, Kulig BM, van LAC, Polman CH. (1994):The effects of 4-aminopyridine on cognitive function in patients with multiple sclerosis: a pilot study. Neurology 44:1701-5. 6.Stork CM, Hoffman RS. (1994):Characterization of 4-aminopyridine in overdose. Journal of Toxicology – Clinical Toxicology 32:583-7. 7.Van Diemen HA, Polman CH, Koetsier JC, Van Loenen AC, Nauta JJ, Bertelsmann FW. (1993):4-Aminopyridine in patients with multiple sclerosis: dosage and serum level related to efficacy and safety. Clinical Neuropharmacology 16:195-204. 8. van Diemen HA, Polman CH, van Dongen TM, et al. (1992):The effect of 4-aminopyridine on clinical signs in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over study. Annals of Neurology

— Take Care James (#11) http://www.geocities.com/hjbsam/theory.html

Response:

I used to use 4-AP, but quit because (at least according to Ed Hill (ed hill)) it inhibits the normal production of myelin. It’s short term symptom relief at long term cost. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Diane Komaroff wrote:

Hi Everyone! I’m still reading most posts, but my messages take three to nine hours to get to Google, so it is a bit discouraging to bother answering or joining in. (But, I still love you guys and feel I know you!!!) So, anyway, I have been on Aminopyridine for several weeks; I have a fine neuro who prescribed this not-yeeeet FDA approved drug.  His biggest admonition was to not O.D as it could cause a gran mal seizure. (Ahem, I have been careful as hell, believe me!) The stuff is great!  I have more energy, don’t get wasted as quickly, and can STAND for long periods without the spaghetti leg exhaustion, where I have to sit down in the middle of preparing dinner. Also, my hearing has improved, as well as my eyesight.  I am also taking Copaxone (yucky two-shoes), and Paxil, which has been increased from 20 to 60 mg. (Turns out I wasn’t depressed, I was anxious!) I am sharing this with anyone who might be able to use this info, as well as wanting to know if anyone knows anything about this stuff.  I have looked at the archives- not much on there, and the internet itself. Oh, also, I had to go to a compounding pharmacy, as the normies don’t sell it at this point. Soooo…   Whaddaya think??? Diane of Seattle, still waiting for Eliz. to return to the hot-tub (Don’t worry, Eliz.,I am a man-lover!)

Response:

Diane, Kelli has taken 4-AP for several years and swears by the stuff. It’s cheap, but, yes it’s a little inconvenient to find a pharmacy that will compound it for you.  And, yes, you need to be careful in your dosage. Some time ago there was an FDA threat to take it away, which was eventually tabled, I believe.  I haven’t heard anything about it since. Kelli’s pharmacist said he was confident that it would remain available, but other than that, I know nothing about its future. It was discussed actively in this group, but I can’t remember how long ago it was – maybe a year ago, even??  I don’t know how far back the archives on Google go, but you might look back a ways and see what you can find. I’m glad it works for you.  As long as you are aware of the risks, it can be a big help.     Good luck,   – Lynne There are several others in the group who take it, too. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Diane Komaroff wrote:

Hi Everyone! I’m still reading most posts, but my messages take three to nine hours to get to Google, so it is a bit discouraging to bother answering or joining in. (But, I still love you guys and feel I know you!!!) So, anyway, I have been on Aminopyridine for several weeks; I have a fine neuro who prescribed this not-yeeeet FDA approved drug.  His biggest admonition was to not O.D as it could cause a gran mal seizure. (Ahem, I have been careful as hell, believe me!) The stuff is great!  I have more energy, don’t get wasted as quickly, and can STAND for long periods without the spaghetti leg exhaustion, where I have to sit down in the middle of preparing dinner. Also, my hearing has improved, as well as my eyesight.  I am also taking Copaxone (yucky two-shoes), and Paxil, which has been increased from 20 to 60 mg. (Turns out I wasn’t depressed, I was anxious!) I am sharing this with anyone who might be able to use this info, as well as wanting to know if anyone knows anything about this stuff.  I have looked at the archives- not much on there, and the internet itself. Oh, also, I had to go to a compounding pharmacy, as the normies don’t sell it at this point. Soooo…   Whaddaya think??? Diane of Seattle, still waiting for Eliz. to return to the hot-tub (Don’t worry, Eliz.,I am a man-lover!)

— Lynne Davis Coordinator of Administrative Services Casey Computer Center, Baylor University Lynne_Da…@baylor.edu

Response:

Hey jack, Can you tell me what this stuff is in plain english, or something very close to it? chirp chirp – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -jack n dalton wrote:

Besides killing birds 4AP has been shown to be effective in treating some SYMPTOMS of MS. Jack Probably the most common problems people who suffer from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) face on a daily basis are weakness and fatigue. Also, many patients are faced with visual problems and with cognitive or concentration effects.  Very few of the treatments available have much effect on these situations.  However, clinical research has shown that many patients can benefit from a little-known medication known as 4-Aminopyridine.  This research, which began in 1984, includes the results of a long-term safety and effectiveness study published in The Archives of Neurology Journal in 1994. What is 4-Aminopyridine? 4-Aminopyridine (4-AP) is known as a "potassium channel blocker". This means that it can block the flow of potassium ions in nerve cells, which results in a more effective nerve impulse traveling down toward the muscles. As you probably know, the poor nerve impulses in patients with MS is the cause of most of the symptoms of the disease.  The improved nerve conduction provided by the 4-AP means that the muscles have a "louder signal" to tell them when to work.  Thus, stronger muscle contractions improve strength and fatigue in many patients.  However, for reasons not fully understood, the 4-AP does not work in all patients.  One study referred to above indicates that 75% of patients with MS report a significant clinical response, and that 80% to 90% of these people will benefit from long-term adminstration of the medication.  Other studies report a lower response rate, around 30% to 50%. A related compound, 3-4 diaminopyridine, is used in another neurological disease known as Lambert-Eaton Syndrome.  It is not commonly used in Multiple Sclerosis. Why has my doctor not told me of this option? 4-AP is not a patentable medication, since it was discovered many years before its effects on MS were known.  Many doctors are aware of its existence, but are not aware that it is available.  The medication is available as the raw ingredient, and a compounding pharmacy can put it into capsules based on the dosage determined by weight of the patient and the response to 4-AP.  Some doctors prefer to use an immediate release capsule exclusively, while others will change their patients to a sustained release form after a person

Question:

Hi, I’ve been a low-fat type person for a long time.  The last six months I’ve been on Paxil and have gained some weight.  The low fat diet isn’t helping me.  Has anyone on antidepressants had a successful diet experience with low-carb?  Thanks! Thought of the day:         Give a man an inch, and he thinks he’s a ruler.

Response:

Hi Dosbabe! I’ve been on Prosac for over a decade, happily, and have had some good results.  I not one of the fastest losers, but I’ve managed to take off about 50 pounds. The only side effect that I seem to have is an increased thirst and difficulty waking up in the mornings.  My sleep has become very, very deep. Good luck! suzi_cream_cheese 262/213/145

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’ve been a low-fat type person for a long time.  The last six months I’ve been on Paxil and have gained some weight.  The low fat diet isn’t helping me.  Has anyone on antidepressants had a successful diet experience with low-carb?  Thanks! Thought of the day: Give a man an inch, and he thinks he’s a ruler.

Response:

Yeah I’m taking zoloft and doing fine. According to Schwarzbein (TheSchwarzbein Principle), A low carb diet will help balance out the chemical soup inside your head. She claims insulin resistance= high carb diet,  is one of the things that unbalance and deplete serotonin in your brain. Which is the same thing that antidepressants try and balance. Give it a try. After talking with your Doc. first.

Response:

Paxil made me gain 50 pounds quick. I switched to Efexxor and feel much better. Lost the weight too. Jeff

Response:

I agree, Effexor is the greatest–you don’t even know you are taking it unless you miss a dose. hinesrance

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Paxil made me gain 50 pounds quick. I switched to Efexxor and feel much better. Lost the weight too. Jeff

Response:

I agree, Effexor is the greatest–you don’t even know you are taking it unless you miss a dose.

Funny you mention that, because I missed my Effexor dose this morning and am curious as to what the results are going to be. Only been on it for about 2 months so may not be too noticeable. I haven’t noticed any side effects as far as appetite goes. Definetly make me sleepy though Jason Atkins since 10/5/00 240/172 http://geocities.com/calabresejason/lowcarb.html

Response:

Is Effexor one of the older type antidepressants or is it related to the same family as Paxil? Thanks I agree, Effexor is the greatest–you don’t even know you are taking it unless you miss a dose.

Thought of the day:         Count Every Thorn a Flower; Every Sharp Rock a Milestone

Response:

Has anyone on antidepressants had a successful diet experience with low-carb?

I was on Prozac when I first started just over 3 years ago.  It didn’t hinder my losing 60 pounds. I tried Imiprimine last month for help with sleep as I have fibromyalgia.  I couldn’t take it as it made me sweat and also caused terrible sweets cravings. I’ve been on Trazodone for 10 days and am not having any problems so far. Good Luck. TamH in VT

Response:

I agree, Effexor is the greatest–you don’t even know you are taking it unless you miss a dose.

A gal came into my gift shop today and we were talking about diet.  She said that she started on Efflexor a few weeks ago and has lost weight because she’s not craving carbs.  She’s not even really dieting. TamH in VT

Response:

Paxil made me gain 50 pounds quick. I switched to Efexxor and feel much better. Lost the weight too. Jeff

My daughter was also on Paxil and gained weight she didn’t need.  She stopped using Paxil and went to Prozac and has had no problems and lost all the weight she gained.  I’ve been on Prozac since 1989 and haven’t had any problems with it either.  I gained a lot of weight when I stopped smoking (50lbs) and  being sick and inactive for so long.  I would suggest you talk to your Dr. about a different antidepressant.  Paxil has a rep for putting on the pounds. — Liz 362/342/200/135 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -^..^<

Response:

I agree, Effexor is the greatest–you don’t even know you are taking it unless you miss a dose.

Well, I took effexor for 3 days and slept like in a coma.  Could not stay awake.  When I did finally manage to awaken, I walked around like a zombie with a spinning head.  Now, my daugher in law takes it and she only has to take naps everyday after work. — Liz 362/342/200/135 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -^..^< hinesrance Paxil made me gain 50 pounds quick. I switched to Efexxor and feel much better. Lost the weight too. Jeff

Response:

I am on Zoloft and am experiencing continued weight loss. You might see if your doctor would switch you. Ginger in OK

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone on antidepressants had a successful diet experience with low-carb? I was on Prozac when I first started just over 3 years ago.  It didn’t hinder my losing 60 pounds. I tried Imiprimine last month for help with sleep as I have fibromyalgia. I couldn’t take it as it made me sweat and also caused terrible sweets cravings. I’ve been on Trazodone for 10 days and am not having any problems so far. Good Luck. TamH in VT

Response:

ginger, menu and exercise? — read and post daily! rosie "If we could share this world below, if we could learn to love… If we could share this world below, we’d need no world above."

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am on Zoloft and am experiencing continued weight loss. You might see if your doctor would switch you. Ginger in OK Has anyone on antidepressants had a successful diet experience with low-carb? I was on Prozac when I first started just over 3 years ago.  It didn’t hinder my losing 60 pounds. I tried Imiprimine last month for help with sleep as I have fibromyalgia. I couldn’t take it as it made me sweat and also caused terrible sweets cravings. I’ve been on Trazodone for 10 days and am not having any problems so far. Good Luck. TamH in VT

Response:

Question:

Was diagnosed with low testosterone after stopping Effexor, never had this problem before but believe it to be related to the drug for a whole bunch of reasons that I won’t go into here.  Has this happened to anyone else?  My urologist believes my pitutatary gland has some how got out of whack, now I am not only depressed but have this to deal with.  Wish I had never taken the drug, Wellbutrin is much better. I read on one of these posts that a user of effexor who quit taking it was told by his doctor that the drug had completely rewired his brain.   Has anyone else heard of permanent side effects from Effexor?

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – << Was diagnosed with low testosterone after stopping Effexor, never had this problem before but believe it to be related to the drug for a whole bunch of reasons that I won’t go into here.  Has this happened to anyone else?  My urologist believes my pitutatary gland has some how got out of whack, now I am not only depressed but have this to deal with.  Wish I had never taken the drug, Wellbutrin is much better. I read on one of these posts that a user of effexor who quit taking it was told by his doctor that the drug had completely rewired his brain.   Has anyone else heard of permanent side effects from Effexor? Sounds like bullshit to me. But when dealing with medicine and drugs, I suppose anything is possible. Its also possible that your testosterone was already low before starting Effexor, you just didnt know it yet and neither did your doctor. Low testosterone levels can cause depression all by itself. In fact, up at Columbia/Presbyterian psychiatry in NYC, there are some experimental clinical trials that use testosterone supplements (anabolic steroids) to "augment" SSRIs in refractory depressed men. Abnormally low levels of testosterone can no doubt cause depression. Anabolic steroids (testosterone) are said to have strong antidepressant effects. So you are on track..correct your low testosterone levels first, then if you still need an AD go back on the Effexor or an SSRI. Eric Steroids caused my depression…prednisone should be used conservatively http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FactsAndFallaciesOfDepression MIBS (Minimally Invasive Brain Stimulation) http://www.musc.edu/psychiatry/fnrd/tms.htm

I am really sure I never had low testosterone before effexor, the effects of having this are pretty dramatic, hot flashes, tired all the time, no libido, very erratic mood swings.  After I went on Effexor I started getting these symptoms.  At first I thought it was the drug so I went off of it, after a few months of being off of it and the side effects staying I realized something was really wrong.  I found another person who had this happen by searching through some old postings, that makes 2, how many more are there?

Response:

Question:

My 80 year old farther(in pretty good shape looks more like 65) has bouts of depression…last time lasted 2 months and had to move in  with me and my family.Finnaly got off zanax(very unpleasent) , now will start on prozac???He doesn’t seem tolerante to these medications…sometimes making him worse.Depression started in again about a week ago…any good results with anything..including prozac?Bill

Xanax is a benzodiazepine, in the same class of drugs as Valium. It is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, including anxiety due to depression However, ALL benzodiazepines are very sedating, and they should not be used for treatment of depressive disorders without anxiety. Prozac (fluoxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline) are Selective Serotonin Receptor uptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s) These constitute a newer class of antidepressants with greater specificity and proportedly lower incidence of side-effects, but YMMV. Since up to a third of diabetics (with studies ranging from 20 – 50%) will develop symptoms of depression during their lifetimes, depression is not uncommon and may respond to the right drug or combination of drugs for treatment of the depression. Parenthetically, Tricyclic anitdepressants (TCA) like Elavil (ami ryptaline), Desipramine (norpramine) and Imipramine (Tofranil) have also been effectively used to manage pain due to peripheral diabetic neuropathy. Hope things go well for Dad.

Response:

Your information about the seratonin receptors, Prozac and Zoloft was most interesting.  You say, one third of all diabetics suffer from depression. Would this account for "black moods"?  Moods that seem to make one snappy and irritable?  Would that constitue depression or just a borderline kind of thing one needs to live with?  Are there any nonmedicational prescriptions that are just as effective. If on Prozac, do people tend to become more conscientious about taking care of themselves. I tend to find that there is a cycle at play.  Feeling bad, overeating, raised sugars, feeling irritable, eating, etc. What are your thoughts?  Is Prozac effective incombating some of these cyclic problems?  Do you find that Prozac or Zoloft is effective in helping with relationships. The family is taking quite a beating.

Response:

<snip He doesn’t seem tolerante to these medications…sometimes making him worse.Depression started in again about a week ago…any good results with anything..including prozac?Bill

Karen Knox Responds: I have had good luck with zoloft, which is a cousin to prozac.  I did have some naseau at first and jumped between being tired and jittery. I am now taking my 150 mgs in the am which allows me to sleep at night. Not all have this good experiemce.  I have taken Pamelor and had good results, but the side effects were very hard for me (dry mouth) because I teach.  Good luck. Karen Knox in chilly Maine

Response:

My 80 year old farther(in pretty good shape looks more like 65) has bouts of depression…last time lasted 2 months and had to move in  with me and my family.Finnaly got off zanax(very unpleasent) , now will start on prozac???He doesn’t seem tolerante to these medications…sometimes making him worse.Depression started in again about a week ago…any good results with anything..including prozac?Bill

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am s depressed. Can someone help me? I am reading Diabetis For Dummies. It is a good book but so depressing. I can not keep my glucose under control. Yes, it is depressing, no different than dealing with any other chronic health problems. I *strongly* urge you to either find or start a support/social group with other diabetics in your area. Having access to that kind of accumilated wisdom is great and inspiring, but sometimes you just need a hug from someone who’s been there, and you can’t get that from the Usenet. I read if you’ve had one heart attack you have a 80% chance of having another within 5 years. I’ve gon 4 and a half. Does that mean I only have 6 mths left? Please help me. My father has had two heart transplants, about two years apart. After the second one, he was told that he likely had only seven years to live (the typical expectency for someone having a transplant and already on anti-rejection medication.) That was almost 13 years ago, and he is still very much alive, healthy and (to my great happiness) spending his children’s inheritence with abandon The statistics are merely *averages*. For every three people who have a second heart attack within five years, there is one who has it sooner and one who has it latter. There are people who, because of changes in their lifestyles, NEVER have a second. Certainly you’ve learned the drill from your reading, so repeat after me: "I will NOT have seconds. I will NOT have seconds…."

Hello, I’m new to the group but have some input on your subject.  As to the Depression, if it lasts more than a week or so seek professional help.  I know as I am a Manic/Depressive (BiPolar I) and I have an Anxiety Disorder.  These I’ve been treated for over 6 years now and its under control. I just found out 8 months ago I was a Type II Diabetic, tried several of the pills but they didn’t agree with my IBC (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) so I take Humulin N injections 1x a day.  At the beginning this started to depress me but with the help of my therapist and a positive attitude that it was just another bump in the road of life I have accepted my condition. As to worrying about another heart attach, well my father died about 3 days after his 48th birthday of heart disease and from the age of 30 to 47 I worried about it or thought about it almost every day.  I’m now 48 1/2 and realize that all that worry was for nothing.  I enjoy each day as though it might be my last.  Treat others as I would like to be treated, go to Mass regularly and try to follow my doctors advice as well as educate myself on my various illness’s. Your on your way with the education part, now just accept you have it and learn to deal with it. "The Internet is like a giant jellyfish. You can’t step on it. You can’t go around it. You’ve got to get through it."                                 -John Evans TIA & Regards, Tom  

Question:

Dear Brenda, Please tell me what it is about meds (Xanax in particular) that you are afraid of? Perhaps we could offer some help in that direction. I have been reading all of your posts and I am so distressed for you. I posted you awhile back about the safety of Xanax and offered some relaxation and breathing techniques. Have you tried them? I guess I just cannot understand how a medphobic can take Zoloft with all the anxiety it causes you and refuse to take Xanax which could ease or eliminate your suffering. Why do you fear Xanax so much? And I sincerely believe that it is your fear of it that increased your anxiety when you took it. Just my opinion, of course. I just cannot stand to see someone suffer when they do not have to. Worried about you, Kathryn

Response:

WEll last night I upped my Zoloft from 12.5 to 19mg.(big deal). Woke up at 6am took .25 Xanax went back to bed for about 2 hours. Here is the question. I am med phobic and have not upped my Xanax to .50mg 3x day. Still take .25.My main symptom is constant and I do mean hyperventilation and shortness of breath. Today is day 15 on the Zoloft. Well this afternoon I decided to take .37mg of Xanax (a 25mg pill and a half). Within 10 minutes my anxiety went up. Tried to distract myself then I felt the Xanax kicking in. I get real groggy BUT THE BREATHING STILL IS SHORT.I was afraid to up my dose cux what if it doesnt help the breathing then I will feel hopeless. I am still kinda shook up and depressed and afraid.Please tell me Im doing something wrong or this is just normal for day 15 upping the dosage and being med phobic. Brenda

Response:

Kathryn I think that my biggest fear of taking the Xanax is that it wouldnt work. Now I started off with .25. My problem is my breathing  (shortness of breath ans hyprventilation). I was hoping the Xanax would help be I really doesnt that much. It may take the edge off of the anxiety but the breathing  problem remains. Also did you read my ost where yesterday was the first day that I upped my Zoloft from 12.5 to 19mg. I will post about that later. Now another fear I battle is that I have always hated lose of control. And when I first took the Xanax I would get very groggy,symptoms still there but very groggy. I would have bad thoughts on what if I cant breathe and am too groggy to breathe. That wont happen in Jesus name but the thoughts still come. Now when I wake up at 5 or 6am and take .25mg Xanax I can go back to sleep. I dont know maybe Ill have to upped the Xanax gradually. The pdoc want me to take .50 3 times a day. Brenda

Response:

Kathryn I think that my biggest fear of taking the Xanax is that it wouldnt work.

Brenda, it is possibly, but highly unlikely that xanax won’t work for you – Xanax can calm an elephant!  But, I guarantee that if you don’t take it, it definitely won’t do a thing. Now I started off with .25. My problem is my breathing  (shortness of breath ans hyprventilation). I was hoping the Xanax would help be I really doesnt that much. It may take the edge off of the anxiety but the breathing  problem remains.

Xanax can lessen your anxiety, but it isn’t a cure all. I suspect that your hyperventilating/shortness of breath has become ingrained to the point were its become an almost automatic response. Xanax cannot undo that, no med can. But breathing exercises like those previously mentioned by another poster should.  The bottom  line in this Brenda is that drugs aren’t magic. They can help a great deal, but you have to make an effort too.  Sorry, but if this was easy, we wouldn’t all be here. Also did you read my ost where yesterday was the first day that I upped my Zoloft from 12.5 to 19mg. I will post about that later. Now another fear I battle is that I have always hated lose of control. And when I first took the Xanax I would get very groggy,symptoms still there but very groggy. I would have bad thoughts on what if I cant breathe and am too groggy to breathe.

Okay, firstly the grogginess will diminish as your body gets used to the Xanax. Secondly, Xanax won’t stop you breathing, even if you pass out. In fact you will probably breath better. What is happening at the moment is that the conscious parts of your brain are overriding the auto settings. Left to its own devises the autonomous system would be doing a better job than you are!!   Even when knocked unconscious most people continue to breath.   The benzos are very safe drugs, even when taken in enormous overdose quantities most people just sleep them off. That wont happen in Jesus name but the thoughts still come. Now when I wake up at 5 or 6am and take .25mg Xanax I can go back to sleep. I dont know maybe Ill have to upped the Xanax gradually. The pdoc want me to take .50 3 times a day. Brenda

tackle the increase at a pace you can cope with, but be assured, the meds won’t kill you, drug companies find it cheaper to keep repeat customers rather than continually having to find new ones!!!!. Take care Ian

Response:

One of my fears about taking my ativan is that it wont work.  When i am in the middle of a PA, I always have the comforting thought of "At least I can always take my pill".  My fear is what if i take it and it still doesnt control my attack and my racing thoughts.  My biggest fear is that I will need to go to the hopital because I will not be able to reign myself back in.  Do you ever feel that way?  D

Response:

OMG that is the biggest fear that I have with my Xanax and alot of the time it doesnt help me that much because of the extra anxiety I have. However I suppose to be taking .50 3x a day and I only take .25 sometimes twice. But I couldnt believe somebody else has the same fear though. Brenda

Response:

One of my fears about taking my ativan is that it wont work.  When i am in the middle of a PA, I always have the comforting thought of "At least I can always take my pill".  My fear is what if i take it and it still doesnt control my attack and my racing thoughts.  My biggest fear is that I will need to go to the hopital because I will not be able to reign myself back in.  Do you ever feel that way?  D

Although, reports of antidepressants suddenly failing to work are becoming more common, its rare for his to happen with benzodiazepines. What may happen is that you begin requiring higher doses to achieve the same levels of control. But, most with anx/pan seem to gradually take/need less, not more benzos. Ian

Response:

Ratzenfratzen ISP lost (or did receive) about two days worth of my newsgroup messages. So I had to do a deja search to find out what I missed. <grrrr I think that my biggest fear of taking the Xanax is that it wouldnt work. Now I

It certainly will not work if you do not take it. I know if I tried only .25 I wouldn’t notice a thing. I must take from .5 to 1mg to have any relief at all. There have been days when I have taken up to 2mgs at once. started off with .25. My problem is my breathing  (shortness of breath ans hyprventilation). I was hoping the Xanax would help be I really doesnt that much. It may take the edge off of the anxiety but the breathing  problem

Have you seen a doctor to make certain that your breathing problem is definitely physical? If it is not physical, that is, one of the many symptoms of anxiety and panic then Xanax can definitely help by letting you be calmer. When you are calmer you can breathe easier. I hope you have ruled out any physical cause such as asthma, though. remains. Also did you read my ost where yesterday was the first day that I upped my Zoloft from 12.5 to 19mg. I will post about that later. Now another

I read about it. Pretty gutsy! Good work! fear I battle is that I have always hated lose of control. And when I first took the Xanax I would get very groggy,symptoms still there but very groggy. I

The grogginess passes quickly (MUCH quicker that the side effects of Zoloft!) if you continue taking it. Maybe the symptoms are still there because of your fear of the grogginess or the Xanax not working. I hate the feeling of losing control, too. Which is why I don’t drink anymore. Hardly. But grogginess is not loss of control. When you are in a high anxiety state you are way too alert, sensitive to every little thing and your mind races ahead of you. Xanax can put the brakes on all of that and the drowsiness you feel just may be your body saying to you, “Thank goodness! Now maybe we can get some rest!“ would have bad thoughts on what if I cant breathe and am too groggy to breathe. That wont happen in Jesus name but the thoughts still come. Now when I wake up

Too groggy to breathe? Impossible in anyone’s name! In fact, I can guarantee you that you will breathe BETTER when you allow yourself to sleep. I have said it before and I will say it again that our bodies function quite nicely when we give it over to the brain’s automatic control system. Better, in fact! We muck things up by over thinking. We all just think too much!  You know, the Divine Creator gave us pretty nifty bodies and will take care of them for us just fine when we give them over to sleep. For that matter, the Creator gave us Xanax through providing the plant valerian and us the intellect to use it. at 5 or 6am and take .25mg Xanax I can go back to sleep. I dont know maybe Ill have to upped the Xanax gradually. The pdoc want me to take .50 3 times a day.

Up it as you wish. But do it. I want to hear some success stories from you! BTW, I take Xanax .5 every four hours (that’s about 4 to 5 times a day) PLUS I take 1 mg of Klonopin (another benzo) at bedtime. I have the okay from my pdoc to take extra of either if I need to. Which happens, but rarely. BTW, my husband has mentioned to me that I breathe slower and deeper when I am asleep. I was very happy to hear that because I still have to work on breathing that way (the CORRECT way) when I am awake. Have you asked your hubby how your breathing is when you sleep? If not, ask! I wager he will tell you the same thing. To MissMaine7, Hi. Have you ever taken an Ativan at the onset of a PA? If so, how much? Did it not work at all, work a little, or work well? Love and blessings to all, Kathryn

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – /Hi anyone and/or everyone. /My name is Chuck and I have (I guess) Dystonia… It SUCKS!!! /I agree, Chuck, Dystonia does Suck:) /The thing is… Do I really have it or something else? /I have tremors of the; Head, trunk, arms, hands, legs, feet; /basically my whole body is shaky at one point or another. Mainly the /tremors are in my neck and hands. I have constant twitching. It also /seems the /more I do physically the worse the tremors get. It makes /walking difficult at imes or doing too much of anything. I’ve had all above symptoms but by stages. Now I am left with essential tremor and it’s annoying. /I have other problems my old /Neuropsych couldn’t pin point to anything. I have memory problems; /long and short term. I have headaches 24/7, with severe ones that I /take meds for. I have very poor eyesight now do to the tremors(?) /(bi-optical sight. One eye is near-sighted, the other far-sighted). I can related to long term memory lost, it is due to treatment for depression twenty years ago. Some of the prescriptions  you are taking are probably the cause of your memory lost, Chuck. It’s a common complaint with us on a.s.d. /the Botox shots. It did nothing… My Doc retired last year and /haven’t seen anyone new yet… just was wonder if I could get any / / opinions this way. You should write to the DMRF, Chuck, and ask them for the name of a competent neurologist, one who has an office in your city. Address, the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation, /BTW: I’m 33y/o, married, 2 kids and 1 one the way… which in itself /should be interesting… I stay at home, recieve S.S.D.I., been /trying to find ways to support family with this condition. /Thanks for your time…. Chuck Regards, Gene

Thanks for your input Gene. Yes a good Doc is hard to find. I went through the state and supposedly I had the best Doc in Wisconsin. She was stumped, along with other colleags. That was at a medical college in WI. About the memory loss/depression drugs theory: I’ve asked the Doc about that in the past. Also about the drugs as a kid; Legal and illegal. Also asked about the many severe head injuries I’ve had in the past, and she says none of those things are a factor. I’ve had 2 or 3 Neurophsych evaluations and they only have gotten worse. I still think it could be lots of factors in my life that may or maynot have caused the tremors. But that’s not my concern. I just want the damb shit to go away. I can’t take much more. DMRF. Thanks for your thought… Chuck

Response:

I sure wish that you could live a day or two in my shoes ; as I really think that your suffering needs a break  Like Gene, I do know the pain with this condition .To Bonnie and Chuck I hope that there is an answer just around the bend, I’m sure there is an answer, just hold on and take it one step at a time .Sometimes finding the right doctor is half the battle.Never give up, as tomorrow is a new day .       gary:

Response:

Welcome, Chuck! I agree with Gene about finding a good dr. (movement disorder specialist) through the DMRF.  You need a definite diagnosis (did I just say that?! ha..ha…).   I say that, Chuck, because many of us with this disorder went many years without a diagnosis.  Alot of drs. have not heard of it.

Yes, that’s so true. It took me a few years before someone realized that something wasn’t mentaly wrong with me. It wasn’t just stress, nor depression. The tremors only get worse when those 2 happen. Nope, just a darn brain disorder (dystonia). Isn’t that all the same area anyway…. That’s why some old friends think I’m just nuts or faking it all… whatever… I wish. I understand about your tremors.  I also have them although not constant now due to the meds. I am on.  I have had generalized dystonia since I was a child; now 43.  That means it affects more than one part of my body.  I am on SSD.  That was hard to give up a career so early in life.

Yes I understand about giving up things in life. I have a degree that is of no use anymore. I can’t run and play with my kids anymore(I cheat on that when I’m having a better day… ) I’ve given up going in public too much; given up having great sex with the wife…. … ah…. never mind, just babbling…. Hope things work out for you and let us know more about yourself. Good luck and take care. Bonnie in TX Hi anyone and/or everyone. My name is Chuck and I have (I guess) Dystonia… It SUCKS!!!

Thanx Bonnie in TX(the longhorn state eh) below here is for general public viewing pleasure… what….. oh… BTW, to those who seem to think I need herbal or health stuff to heal; don’t bother wasting my time, nor yours. I hate any type of nonsence pedaling… you know who I mean, yes you… the one who e-mailed me on that URL to go to. No Thanx

Response:

I sure wish that you could live a day or two in my shoes ; as I really think that your suffering needs a break  Like Gene, I do know the pain with this condition .To Bonnie and Chuck I hope that there is an answer just around the bend, I’m sure there is an answer, just hold on and take it one step at a time .Sometimes finding the right doctor is half the battle.Never give up, as tomorrow is a new day .       gary:

Thanx for the thought gary. Sure there are answers… THe experimental brain stimulator thingies they are doing lately. The ones that shock some part of the lower brain to stop the tremors. but it’s only worked in a few cases I’ve heard of and simple ones at that. But yes… I understand…. You are right tomorrow is a new day. They go by so quick for me these days. As I just do the few things that I can still somewhat do… If I don’t forget…  :)

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Chuck nice to hear from you.    I myself have never had this type of thing happen to me . Head snaps yes but this no . I write mainly on my own experiences with S.T  .       It is my hope that some one will read this and reply .    Be careful of the word dystonia . I suggest you look up its meaning . Dystonia is very wide ranging and includes many things .What I have is in reality SPASMODIC TORTICOLLIS (CERVICAL DYSTONIA).Yet I am said to have simply DYSTONIA.    gary:  P.S I WILL do my best to find info if others do not answer. Hi anyone and/or everyone. My name is Chuck and I have (I guess) Dystonia… It SUCKS!!! The thing is… Do I really have it or something else? I have tremors of the; Head, trunk, arms, hands, legs, feet; basically my whole body is shaky at one point or another. Mainly the tremors are in my neck and hands. I have constant twitching.

Yes, yes… the meaning… Oh how I’ve looked up and tried studying dystonia, tremors, CP, and the such. I’ve come to the conclusion no one realy knows what they are doing in or with the brain. I’ve been classified and reclassified and still they don’t know for sure… They are all befuddeled… is that a word? whatever… yes it is a strange world; the brain… Anyway… thanx for your input. Chuck

Response:

Hi Chuck, My husband was diagnosed yesterday with this – he’s never had any problem before – Neuro Dr. thinks related to medication reaction?? Only thing is he hasn’t taken anything unusual or different recently??   We’ll see, I guess. Gave him 50 cc’s Benedryl – sent us home.  Okay since. He said his throat started being real sore, but not like you would have usually with cold,  then the next day when he tried to work on cabinets in shop, his mouth, bottom jaw, started drawing, so much it was painful and he couldn’t open his mouth or hardly talk. Said he would lie down and it would cease somewhat.  Get up start working, happened again and again.   He is 46 yrs. old, sees well,  and no other tremors.  Never know what kind of condition we can get in, do we?  Will keep you in my prayers as well. Take care, Mrs. Bond

Response:

CHUCK HANG IN THERE, THERE WILL BE A CURE ONE DAY AND GOD I HOPE IT IS SOON. THIS ISN’T EVEN LIVING.  SOMETIMES I FEEL LIKE GIVING UP

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What does the Botox do for you or anyone? It had NO effect on me… bad or good. Used to be the life of parties huh? I can relate… Yes I too had to give up work and many other things in life. Just sucks huh… What’s even worse is I hate to not keep busy; which is hard when I can do so little now days… I have found something that reducess my stress levels and some tremors and such but alas it is not legal in my state yet… I only know of 5 US states allowing it for medical use. I still have the bad days, but it helps me on the really tuff days. Chuck A young lady mentioned that Botox injections were not working for her.  Her sister advised her to change doctor for a more experienced one.  She is most satisfied with Botoxin now and wouldn’t do without it.

I know… I still have to find a new Doc, since my last one left the business. Anyone know any good ones in S.E. Wisconsin? S.T. flares up for five/six years, that has been my experience with the syndrome, and the pain one experience during this period  indescribable.  Then, it slowly dissipates and your quality of life becomes  much better. Like a bad storm, S.T.’s fury alleviates on its own.

I’m sorry… S.T.??? I didn’t right that one down. My memory is terible… Dissipates??? I’ve had my disability for almost all my life… It was just almost 4 years ago now they got much worse. I have good days and bad days; then I have them really shitty ones, where I could blow the world up just to end the pain. But alas… today is a not too bad a day… thank goodness… best day in over a month!!! In the meantime, you could try Baclofen, Tens (S.P.?), hot packs, hot baths, and anything to take your mind away from the pain, say a musical instrument, hobby, etc.

Tens? Have tried Baclofen… yes did the hot bath the other night… helped somewhat. The weather was nice today(58 degrees), so I opened up the windows, grabbed some fresh air, then turned on my amp and played my guitar… felt nice for once… (just wish I could remember the notes better nowadays…) Don’t be shy to talk with us, fight with us,<<g laugh with us and cry with us. Gene

Oh, If I don’t forget about the disability; I’ll be here for a while…   Chuck

Response:

CHUCK I HAVE DYSTONIA TOO AND I HAD TO QUIT WORK.  I DON’T KNOW HOW YOU ARE  MAKING IT.  I GET 3 BOTTLES OF BOTOX EVERY 3 MONTHS AND AM HORRIBLE IN ABOUT  3 WEEKS.  THIS HORRIBLE DISEASE CAUSES SO MUCH PAIN, I AM MISERABLE AND TO THINK I USED TO BE THE LIFE OF THE PARTY. TORTI 24 @  AOL.COM

Response:

So good of you to answer with an experience thanks .I was 45 when I got S T             gary: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Chuck, My husband was diagnosed yesterday with this – he’s never had any problem

Response:

Has anyone ever experienced a loss of balance, difficulty in standing motionless, difficulty in – for example – standing unsupported in a queue in a shopping mall – since getting dystonia? and if so has this ever been seen as part of dystonia or something unrelated? thanks chris

Hi Chris, It’s been a while.  How are you? The loss of balance because of Dystonia is a subject that’s been discussed by a.s.d. members who have this problem.  I suspect they will be contacting you shortly, as soon as their server picks up your post. Regards, Gene

Response:

YES; I have, but I usually feel it is because of other things. Stuffed up and a cold, over tired ,fever, ear infection ,sinus infection, ect, but this is not to say it is not dystonia related .In this case I would say you should look at other things first as hearing is your balance (correct?).     gary: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone ever experienced a loss of balance, difficulty in standing motionless, difficulty in – for example – standing unsupported in a queue in a shopping mall – since getting dystonia? and if so has this ever been seen as part of dystonia or something unrelated? thanks chris

Response:

Has anyone ever experienced a loss of balance, difficulty in standing motionless, difficulty in – for example – standing unsupported in a queue in a shopping mall – since getting dystonia? and if so has this ever been seen as part of dystonia or something unrelated? thanks chris

Response:

Welcome, Chuck! I agree with Gene about finding a good dr. (movement disorder specialist) through the DMRF.  You need a definite diagnosis (did I just say that?! ha..ha…).   I say that, Chuck, because many of us with this disorder went many years without a diagnosis.  Alot of drs. have not heard of it. I understand about your tremors.  I also have them although not constant now due to the meds. I am on.  I have had generalized dystonia since I was a child; now 43.  That means it affects more than one part of my body.  I am on SSD.  That was hard to give up a career so early in life. Hope things work out for you and let us know more about yourself. Good luck and take care. Bonnie in TX – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi anyone and/or everyone. My name is Chuck and I have (I guess) Dystonia… It SUCKS!!! The thing is… Do I really have it or something else? I have tremors of the; Head, trunk, arms, hands, legs, feet; basically my whole body is shaky at one point or another. Mainly the tremors are in my neck and hands. I have constant twitching. It also seems the more I do physically the worse the tremors get. It makes walking difficult at times or doing too much of anything. I have other problems my old Neuropsych couldn’t pin point to anything. I have memory problems; long and short term. I have headaches 24/7, with severe ones that I take meds for. I have very poor eyesight now do to the tremors(?) (bi-optical sight. One eye is near-sighted, the other far-sighted). I used to have a very high I.Q., now I’m told I’m borderline retarded in most areas. Mainly I think because of the memory problems. I have equalibrium problems also. I’ve always been shaky since I was a kid, but the condition got severe a few years ago when I started having severe seisure type tremors. Which I still get on occasion. Where all my insides and outside seemed to tighten up and twitch sort of thing. I knew what was going on around me but couldn’t talk or open my eyes. Anyway… I’ve had ALL the tests they have(everything comes back normal, whatever that is), plus I’ve about tried every med they could think of. Yes even the Botox shots. It did nothing… My Doc retired last year and haven’t seen anyone new yet… just was wonder if I could get any opinions this way. BTW: I’m 33y/o, married, 2 kids and 1 one the way… which in itself should be interesting… I stay at home, recieve S.S.D.I., been trying to find ways to support family with this condition. Thanks for your time…. Chuck

Response:

/Hi anyone and/or everyone. /My name is Chuck and I have (I guess) Dystonia… It SUCKS!!! /I agree, Chuck, Dystonia does Suck:) /The thing is… Do I really have it or something else? /I have tremors of the; Head, trunk, arms, hands, legs, feet; /basically my whole body is shaky at one point or another. Mainly the /tremors are in my neck and hands. I have constant twitching. It also /seems the /more I do physically the worse the tremors get. It makes /walking difficult at imes or doing too much of anything. I’ve had all above symptoms but by stages. Now I am left with essential tremor and it’s annoying. /I have other problems my old /Neuropsych couldn’t pin point to anything. I have memory problems; /long and short term. I have headaches 24/7, with severe ones that I /take meds for. I have very poor eyesight now do to the tremors(?) /(bi-optical sight. One eye is near-sighted, the other far-sighted). I can related to long term memory lost, it is due to treatment for depression twenty years ago. Some of the prescriptions  you are taking are probably the cause of your memory lost, Chuck.   It’s a common complaint with us on a.s.d.   /the Botox shots. It did nothing… My Doc retired last year and /haven’t seen anyone new yet… just was wonder if I could get any / / opinions this way. You should write to the DMRF, Chuck, and ask them for the name of a competent neurologist, one who has an office in your city. Address, the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation, /BTW: I’m 33y/o, married, 2 kids and 1 one the way… which in itself /should be interesting… I stay at home, recieve S.S.D.I., been /trying to find ways to support family with this condition. /Thanks for your time…. Chuck Regards, Gene

Response:

Chuck nice to hear from you.    I myself have never had this type of thing happen to me . Head snaps yes but this no . I write mainly on my own experiences with S.T  .       It is my hope that some one will read this and reply .    Be careful of the word dystonia . I suggest you look up its meaning . Dystonia is very wide ranging and includes many things .What I have is in reality SPASMODIC TORTICOLLIS (CERVICAL DYSTONIA).Yet I am said to have simply DYSTONIA.    gary:  P.S I WILL do my best to find info if others do not answer. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi anyone and/or everyone. My name is Chuck and I have (I guess) Dystonia… It SUCKS!!! The thing is… Do I really have it or something else? I have tremors of the; Head, trunk, arms, hands, legs, feet; basically my whole body is shaky at one point or another. Mainly the tremors are in my neck and hands. I have constant twitching.

Response:

Hi anyone and/or everyone. My name is Chuck and I have (I guess) Dystonia… It SUCKS!!! The thing is… Do I really have it or something else? I have tremors of the; Head, trunk, arms, hands, legs, feet; basically my whole body is shaky at one point or another. Mainly the tremors are in my neck and hands. I have constant twitching. It also seems the more I do physically the worse the tremors get. It makes walking difficult at times or doing too much of anything. I have other problems my old Neuropsych couldn’t pin point to anything. I have memory problems; long and short term. I have headaches 24/7, with severe ones that I take meds for. I have very poor eyesight now do to the tremors(?) (bi-optical sight. One eye is near-sighted, the other far-sighted). I used to have a very high I.Q., now I’m told I’m borderline retarded in most areas. Mainly I think because of the memory problems. I have equalibrium problems also. I’ve always been shaky since I was a kid, but the condition got severe a few years ago when I started having severe seisure type tremors. Which I still get on occasion. Where all my insides and outside seemed to tighten up and twitch sort of thing. I knew what was going on around me but couldn’t talk or open my eyes. Anyway… I’ve had ALL the tests they have(everything comes back normal, whatever that is), plus I’ve about tried every med they could think of. Yes even the Botox shots. It did nothing… My Doc retired last year and haven’t seen anyone new yet… just was wonder if I could get any opinions this way. BTW: I’m 33y/o, married, 2 kids and 1 one the way… which in itself should be interesting… I stay at home, recieve S.S.D.I., been trying to find ways to support family with this condition. Thanks for your time…. Chuck

Response:

Has anyone ever experienced a loss of balance, difficulty in standing motionless, difficulty in – for example – standing unsupported in a queue in a shopping mall – since getting dystonia? and if so has this ever been seen as part of dystonia or something unrelated? thanks chris Hi Chris, It’s been a while.  How are you?

Not good. Balance probs which means that as a teacher, my job is on the line…. The loss of balance because of Dystonia is a subject that’s been discussed by a.s.d. members who have this problem.  I suspect they will be contacting you shortly, as soon as their server picks up your post. Regards, Gene

Response:

Now here is one I can say happens to me . I always feel it is because i’m too close .Well maybe not . Maybe I walk crooked .Got me thinking         gary:

 when I am walking beside someone I constantly run – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – into them.  I just walk crooked!     Bonnie in TX T

Response:

Sue have you emptied your mail box lately a RETURNED letter said it was full.     gary: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

Chris, I have balance problems exactly like Cathy has.  When I go from sitting to standing and when I am walking beside someone I constantly run into them.  I just walk crooked!    Yes, I do believe it is the dystonia.  But, now put me on a horse and watch me go.   How do you stay on a horse?  Balance!   Weird, huh? Bonnie in TX – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – writes: Has anyone ever experienced a loss of balance, difficulty in standing motionless, difficulty in – for example – standing unsupported in a queue in a shopping mall – since getting dystonia? and if so has this ever been seen as part of dystonia or something unrelated? thanks chris

Response:

Has anyone ever experienced a loss of balance, difficulty in standing motionless, difficulty in – for example – standing unsupported in a queue in a shopping mall – since getting dystonia? and if so has this ever been seen as part of dystonia or something unrelated? thanks chris

I can say yes to all… Not just standing up, but also just standing. That is why when I walk, I walk with the aid of useing my toes for balance. That is why I don’t do much walking. Some days I use my cane, when ever I know I’m going to be walking any distance I rent a wheel chair. It’s just too hard otherwise. My old  Neuro said yes this is because of Dystonia. Hope this help…   Chuck

Response:

I have some balance problems which are neurological in nature ("dystonic" in an extremely loose application of the word, I guess) and some which are probably inner-ear related.  Sigh. Amy. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone ever experienced a loss of balance, difficulty in standing motionless, difficulty in – for example – standing unsupported in a queue in a shopping mall – since getting dystonia? and if so has this ever been seen as part of dystonia or something unrelated? thanks chris

Response:

Chris, I can not find the study off hand but let me try to refresh your memory.    I wrote you about a balance study that was being done in the UK.  You wrote me that very day and said that was where you were having your botox that day!  It was when you went through London during Princess Di"s funeral…. Maybe something is still going on with this study.   I  think you could ask if anybody that has dystonia does not lose their balance and you might get a more definitive answer<G Sue

Response:

writes: Has anyone ever experienced a loss of balance, difficulty in standing motionless, difficulty in – for example – standing unsupported in a queue in a shopping mall – since getting dystonia? and if so has this ever been seen as part of dystonia or something unrelated? thanks chris

Chris, When I first got dystonia the balance problems began. It has gotten worse, which the neuro. had noticed. It is dystonia related.  I have had this for over 10 yrs.   Standing up, it may take 2 to 3 times in getting up from a sitting position to standing.  I did that a long time ago, then it stopped and now its back again.   Standing motionless…yes and no to that one. Its hard to answer as it depends what is going on around me.  The mall can be bad due to tile going from an all white area to a dark area, which sets things off. Majority of time, I would say yes to some degree of a balance problem going from sitting to standing.  But I have been doing this at the mall. When walking with Ted, I will tend to walk at an angle …rather than straight ahead, in the middle of the area, I will walk off the path and end up against the side of a store. (kind of hard to explain) Hope that helps. Cathy

Response:

Question:

I take a total of 375mg of Effexor (75mg tablets).  Does it matter when I take it?  I know that certain drugs it doesn’t matter when or how you break up the dosage, but in others it does make a difference.  Thanks for your help. T*A*R

Response:

Apparently, Effexor needs to be taken twice a day as it doesn’t stay in the system as long as others. p – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I take a total of 375mg of Effexor (75mg tablets).  Does it matter when I take it?  I know that certain drugs it doesn’t matter when or how you break up the dosage, but in others it does make a difference.  Thanks for your help. T*A*R

Response:

<Posted and Mailed Apparently, Effexor needs to be taken twice a day as it doesn’t stay in the system as long as others.

With that (375 mg) high of a dose of Effexor, I would definitely suggest taking it 4 times per day in order to level out the amount of antidepressant in a person’s system. I found that taking Effexor only twice per day induced ultra-rapid hypomanic swings in me. There is now a new extended release form of Effexor that should reduce this probability. However I have not personally tried that formulation. p I take a total of 375mg of Effexor (75mg tablets). Does it matter when I take it?  I know that certain drugs it doesn’t matter when or how you break up the dosage, but in others it does make a difference.  Thanks for your help.

That is a lot of Effexor! My guess is that your mood stabilizer is not doing its job for you adequately — if you need that large of a dosage of AD to keep you out of depression. I suggest that you talk with your pdoc if you are not satisfied with the effectiveness of your current mood stabilizer. If you start to take either of the two newer mood stabilizers (Neurontin or Lamictal), I strongly recommend that you discuss with your pdoc about cutting way back on your Effexor dose — else you will run the risk of being rapidly sent into (hypo)mania. BTW I take all my meds (with the exception of certain antibiotics and insulin) with meals or milk. This seems to help with stomach irritation and nausea. YSMV (Your Stomach May Vary). T*A*R

HTH! Best regards from, James — * Since I do not get a complete Newsfeed, I would appreciate receiving * * a copy of any responding posts. Please also indicate if you are      * * posting as well as emailing me. Thanks for helping me out!           *

Response:

Question:

Hello, I wanted to introduce myself and hopefully find someone who can understand me….I’m a 28 yr. old female, recently diagnosed with dysthymia later changed to cyclothymia….just started taking Zoloft (25mg.) two days ago.   I’M SCARED sh*tless….hehe nonono that’s not right because one of the side effects is diarreaha but that may be more than you wanted to know, huh? (G)  Anyway, I have a question…have any of you had "Profile" tests?  I was diagnosed "passive-aggressive"   (accckk … not a very attractive title for a person is it?)  ONe of the things my therp said I needed to work on was being more assertive…yeah right…And just how the heck do you do that when you don’t how to start with?  Anyway (gosh there I go bouncing form subject to subject… obviously the Zoloft isn’t working yet….) Another question…The Zoloft seems to be making me VERY irritable…is this common?  I don’t see my therp till Thursday and thought maybe some of you would know….AND BTW don’t even get me started on my therp….GAG….she drives me nuts sometimes….but then at other times she’s ok…but i swear she doesn’t really do anything…our last few sessions have just degenrated into "BITCHFESTS"…I bitch she listens and nods with a bored smile…..SIGH…I know, I know,…I should just stop bitching, huh? hehehe oh well…sorry to rant so long…. I hope I can make a few friends here….:) Daphne  

Response:

Hmm….I think therapists are retarded sometimes. I saw this one person….(though not professionally or anything..she was in training) and all she did was listen and pretend to understand. I felt totally stupid. After meeting with her 10 times….it accomplished nothing…nothing at all. Realized nothing bout self. Hmm…I get this feeling that I’m doind something wrong…oh wells. Ignore it Marina You can be my friend Daphne…welcome to asd…or whatever. (hmm…just welcome..I believe my thoughts are drifting.) Marina "You’ll see…it takes more strength to cry, admit defeat"                     -Madonna "You’ll See"

Response:

Hello, I wanted to introduce myself and hopefully find someone who can understand me…

Hi Daphne, welcome to ASD. .I’m a 28 yr. old female, recently diagnosed with dysthymia later changed to cyclothymia….just started taking Zoloft (25mg.) two days ago.   I’M SCARED sh*tless….hehe nonono that’s not right because one of the side effects is diarreaha but that may be more than you wanted to know, huh? (G)

Um.. yea- like, that would be more than I wanted to know, if I didn’t already know a whole lot more than I want to know about Zoloft side effects from taking it. Anyway, I have a question…have any of you had "Profile" tests?  I was diagnosed "passive-aggressive"   (accckk … not a very attractive title for a person is it?)  ONe of the things my therp said I needed to work on was being more assertive…yeah right…And just how the heck do you do that when you don’t how to start with?

Ug.. I hate that term- ‘passive-aggressive’. And that’s all I have to say about that… Anyway (gosh there I go bouncing form subject to subject… obviously the Zoloft isn’t working yet….) Another question…The Zoloft seems to be making me VERY irritable…is this common?  I don’t see my therp till Thursday and thought maybe some of you would know….

If you just started Zoloft two days, nothing will be happening yet. Zoloft usually takes up to six weeks to really kick in. AND BTW don’t even get me started on my therp….GAG….she drives me nuts sometimes….but then at other times she’s ok…but i swear she doesn’t really do anything…our last few sessions have just degenrated into "BITCHFESTS"…I bitch she listens and nods with a bored smile…..SIGH…I know, I know,…I should just stop bitching, huh?

Hmm.. if you don’t like your therp, I recommend changing before you get to invested in her. Bad therapists usually don’t help people all that much. Spend the time to find the good one. As for bitching, what the hell is a therapy session for anyway? The only reason not to bitch is if what your bitching about really isn’t important to you, cause then its a waste of money… hehehe oh well…sorry to rant so long…. I hope I can make a few friends here….:) Daphne

No problem on the ranting… look at some other posts for just how long any of us can’t rant about ourselves…:) Well, hmm.. that’s my attempt at a reply. Hope to hear more from you in the future. Hoping to make a new friend too, Pink

Response:

Hi Daphne! Welcome to asd!

– Hello, I wanted to introduce myself and hopefully find someone who can understand me….I’m a 28 yr. old female, recently diagnosed with dysthymia later changed to cyclothymia….just started taking Zoloft (25mg.) two days ago.  

I am 30 yrs old.  Starting taking Aropax two months ago.  I believe I have cyclothymia too but hasn’t been diagnosed.  When I’m high I run around singing, get sexually forward……  I’M SCARED sh*tless….hehe nonono that’s not right because one of the side effects is diarreaha but that may be more than you wanted to know, huh? (G)

Lovely isn’t it!   Anyway, I have a question…have any of you had "Profile" tests?  I was diagnosed "passive-aggressive"   (accckk … not a very attractive title for a person is it?)  ONe of the things my therp said I needed to work on was being more assertive…yeah right…And just how the heck do you do that when you don’t how to start with?  

Im passive/ aggressive too.  I let things build up in side until I burst out.  Watch out who ever triggers me off!  You need to find an adult education place that runs Assertion courses.  They have helped me. Anyway (gosh there I go bouncing form subject to subject… obviously the Zoloft isn’t working yet….)

Could take up to a month to get properly stable.  The chemical has to stable in your blood.  Another question…The Zoloft seems to be making me VERY irritable…is this common?  I don’t see my therp till Thursday and thought maybe some of you would know….AND BTW don’t even get me started on my therp….GAG….she drives me nuts sometimes….but then at other times she’s ok…but i swear she doesn’t really do anything…our last few sessions have just degenrated into "BITCHFESTS"…I bitch she listens and nods with a bored smile…..SIGH…I know, I know,…I should just stop bitching, huh? hehehe oh well…sorry to rant so long…. I hope I can make a few friends here….:)

Someesle should be able to help you with your irritabilty.  The therp is probably waiting for the Zooloft to kick so she can see what your *real* issues are as the symptoms level out. Look forward to talking to you more.  Welcome to mail me directly.  Good luck You are in the right place!!!! Julie I love a sunburnt country A land of sweeping plains Of rugged mountain ranges Of droughts and flooding rains I love her far horizons I love her jewel seas Her beauty and her terror The wide brown land for me Dorothy McKellar

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, I wanted to introduce myself and hopefully find someone who can understand me… Hi Daphne, welcome to ASD. .I’m a 28 yr. old female, recently diagnosed with dysthymia later changed to cyclothymia….just started taking Zoloft (25mg.) two days ago.   I’M SCARED sh*tless….hehe nonono that’s not right because one of the side effects is diarreaha but that may be more than you wanted to know, huh? (G) Um.. yea- like, that would be more than I wanted to know, if I didn’t already know a whole lot more than I want to know about Zoloft side effects from taking it.

Sorry ’bout that…when I get nervous or feel insecure, I make really dumb jokes…sometimes even tasteless ones….:op~ Anyway, I have a question…have any of you had "Profile" tests?  I was diagnosed "passive-aggressive"   (accckk … not a very attractive title for a person is it?)  ONe of the things my therp said I needed to work on was being more assertive…yeah right…And just how the heck do you do that when you don’t how to start with? Ug.. I hate that term- ‘passive-aggressive’. And that’s all I have to say about that…

Heh, I hate it too…it simplifies things WAAAAY too much… Anyway (gosh there I go bouncing form subject to subject… obviously the Zoloft isn’t working yet….) Another question…The Zoloft seems to be making me VERY irritable…is this common?  I don’t see my therp till Thursday and thought maybe some of you would know…. If you just started Zoloft two days, nothing will be happening yet. Zoloft usually takes up to six weeks to really kick in

YIPES!  you mean I’m just being a b*tch cause I am a b*tch? hehehe – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – AND BTW don’t even get me started on my therp….GAG….she drives me nuts sometimes….but then at other times she’s ok…but i swear she doesn’t really do anything…our last few sessions have just degenrated into "BITCHFESTS"…I bitch she listens and nods with a bored smile…..SIGH…I know, I know,…I should just stop bitching, huh? Hmm.. if you don’t like your therp, I recommend changing before you get to invested in her. Bad therapists usually don’t help people all that much. Spend the time to find the good one. As for bitching, what the hell is a therapy session for anyway? The only reason not to bitch is if what your bitching about really isn’t important to you, cause then its a waste of money… hehehe oh well…sorry to rant so long…. I hope I can make a few friends here….:) Daphne No problem on the ranting… look at some other posts for just how long any of us can’t rant about ourselves…:) Well, hmm.. that’s my attempt at a reply. Hope to hear more from you in the future. Hoping to make a new friend too, Pink

Thanks Pink…you made me feel welcome…:) Daphne

Response:

[posted and emailed rather late] Another question…The Zoloft seems to be making me VERY irritable…is this common?  

just make sure that it’s irratability, and not mania that you’re getting, ok? …our last few sessions have just degenrated into "BITCHFESTS"…I bitch she listens and nods with a bored smile…..SIGH…I know, I know,…I should just stop bitching, huh?

no way – bitching is one of the things therapy is for!  i did it for years, and it actually helped!!! (as long as the therapist knows how to ask the questions to get your bitching constructive) hehehe oh well…sorry to rant so long…. I hope I can make a few friends here….:) Daphne  

welcome to asd, daphne… Dark Prism – My personality refracts darkly through the serotonigenic spectrum. Mania-Depression-OCD-Anxiety – how I love a fully-rounded life!!!! Thomas A. Ott — ottthoma (at) pipeline.com – [3 t's in ottthoma!!!] www.geocities.com/~ottthoma — main site www.geocities.com/~ottthoma/depression/index.html—– depression site www.geocities.com/~ottthoma/depression/sjw.html —— st. john’s wort stuff

Response:

Hmm….I think therapists are retarded sometimes. I saw this one person….(though not professionally or anything..she was in training) and all she did was listen and pretend to understand. I felt totally stupid. After meeting with her 10 times….it accomplished nothing…nothing at all. Realized nothing bout self. Hmm…I get this feeling that I’m doind something wrong…oh wells. Ignore it Marina You can be my friend Daphne…welcome to asd…or whatever. (hmm…just welcome..I believe my thoughts are drifting.)

        Well, I missed the original post… but Marina, I have to say that how you felt about therapy was how I felt until a few years ago when I finally found a therapist who "clicked" with me.  Or maybe I was just ready to be more aggressive, who knows?  but in any case, I needed (still do) a more active therapy than just talk (after all, if I’m just going to sit there and talk about myself, I may as well write in my journal or talk to my friends, esp. now that I’ve found ASD!)  The therapist I clicked with (unfortunately no longer covered by my insurance once they switched HMO’s with me) was more of a cognitive behavioralist and would give me little exercises to do, and even though sometimes they felt stupid, they really did help.  Plus it gave me a feeling that I was *doing* something rather than just talking.         So if you feel/felt that therapy wasn’t helping you, I’d suggest trying a different therapist.  The right one can really make a difference…         Sorry if this is off the topic, as I said, I missed the original post. [posted & emailed] leslie ****** "I must not think bad thoughts…" — X

Response:

Hello,

Hello Daphne.  It’s nice to meet you. I wanted to introduce myself and hopefully find someone who can understand me….I’m a 28 yr. old female, recently diagnosed with dysthymia later changed to cyclothymia….just started taking Zoloft (25mg.) two days ago.   I’M SCARED sh*tless….hehe nonono that’s not right because one of the side effects is diarreaha but that may be more than you wanted to know, huh? (G)

:+)  you must know that OF COURSE we want to know that… you have been reading the stuff here, haven’t you?  We even had a scatological thread here once… hehehe oh well…sorry to rant so long…. I hope I can make a few friends here….:)

you have already. — Wolfbitch / Laz Spashett   Reindeer Liberation Front    www.gwenhwys.demon.co.uk/rlf/ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -:@ Free the Reindeer!  Santa must die!

Response: